ADDITIVES AND ADMIXTURES
REPORT
1. Introduction
In modern construction, concrete performance is enhanced using additives and admixtures.
These chemical compounds improve strength, durability, workability, and resistance to
environmental conditions. While additives are added during cement manufacturing,
admixtures are introduced during concrete mixing.
2. Additives
Definition
Additives are chemical components added to cement during manufacturing to enhance or
modify its properties.
Types of Additives
1. Accelerators – Speed up cement hydration, reducing setting time (e.g., Calcium
chloride).
2. Retarders – Delay cement hydration to allow longer working time (e.g., Gypsum).
3. Dispersants – Improve fluid motion, reducing water demand in cement slurry.
4. Fluid-Loss Agents – Prevent excessive water loss during cement placement.
5. Weighting Agents – Increase density in high-pressure environments.
Uses
• Enhancing workability for large-scale projects.
• Controlling setting time in extreme temperatures.
• Waterproofing basements, pools, and marine structures.
• Strength improvement using pozzolanic materials like fly ash.
Examples of Additive Manufacturers
• FOSROC – Superplasticizers, retardants, accelerators.
• BASF – MasterCem range.
• Dow Chemicals – WALOCEL MKW, RDP powders for cement adhesives.
3. Admixtures
Definition
Admixtures are chemical or mineral components added to concrete at the mixing stage to
modify its plastic or hardened properties.
Types of Admixtures
Mineral Admixtures
• Fly Ash – Enhances workability and reduces cement consumption.
• Silica Fume – Fills voids, increasing strength and durability.
• GGBS (Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag) – Improves chemical resistance.
Chemical Admixtures
1. Set Retarders – Extend setting time (e.g., Calcium sulfate).
2. Air-Entraining Agents – Improve freeze-thaw resistance (e.g., Vinsol resin).
3. Water Reducers (Plasticizers & Superplasticizers)
o Plasticizers – Reduce water demand by 10%.
o Superplasticizers – Reduce water demand by up to 30%, increasing strength.
4. Accelerators – Speed up setting time for fast-track projects.
Uses
• Workability improvement for high-rise buildings.
• Setting time control for cold/hot climates.
• Durability enhancement for marine and industrial environments.
• Strength improvement in bridges, dams, and highways.
Examples of Admixture Manufacturers
• FOSROC – Superplasticizer AURACAST 270M.
• Sterling Auxiliaries – Polycarboxylate ethers for slump reduction.
4. Cost Comparison Between Additives and Admixtures
Cost (per kg or
Category Type Remarks
per liter)
Accelerators (Calcium
Additives ₹10 - ₹30 Reduces setting time
Chloride)
Delays setting, useful in hot
Retarders (Gypsum) ₹8 - ₹20
climates
Improves flow and reduces water
Dispersants (Lignosulfonates) ₹50 - ₹150
demand
Prevents corrosion and increases
Waterproofing Additives ₹100 - ₹300
durability
Reduces water demand by 10-
Admixtures Plasticizers ₹50 - ₹100
15%
Reduces water by up to 30%,
Superplasticizers ₹200 - ₹500
enhances strength
Pozzolanic Materials (Fly Ash, Increases strength and reduces
₹20 - ₹100
GGBS) cement use
Insights:
• Admixtures generally cost more than additives but provide better control over concrete
properties.
• Superplasticizers are expensive but highly effective in water reduction.
• Fly ash and GGBS reduce cement usage, making concrete cost-effective.
5. On-Site Tests for Additives & Admixtures
• Slump Test – Measures workability and water-reducing efficiency.
• Water Absorption Test – Determines permeability and waterproofing effectiveness.
• Compressive Strength Test – Evaluates strength improvement due to additives and
admixtures.
6. Architectural Case Studies
• Burj Khalifa – Used high-range superplasticizers to achieve pumpable concrete at
extreme heights.
• Lotus Temple – White concrete with admixtures for aesthetic appeal and strength.
• Underwater Structures – Used waterproofing agents and corrosion inhibitors.
7. Role of RMC (Ready-Mix Concrete)
• Factory-made concrete ensuring uniform quality.
• Reduces material wastage and increases construction efficiency.
• Commonly used in large-scale infrastructure projects.
8. Advantages of Additives & Admixtures
• Enhance workability and durability.
• Reduce cement and water consumption, lowering costs.
• Improve sustainability by reducing carbon footprint.
• Enable specialized construction, like underwater or high-rise projects.
Disadvantages
• Overuse of admixtures can lead to rapid slump loss.
• Superplasticizers may cause discoloration in exposed concrete.
• Incorrect dosages can lead to improper setting and cracking.
